Double-hung windows should be secured with pins or extra locks to discourage prying.

Trees and shrubs should be trimmed to allow visibility along the perimeter (particularly entries) of the house.

Timers (both interior and exterior) should be installed to activate lights in your absence.

All entrances (doors and windows) to your home should be well lit at night.

Your address should be posted on your house and be clearly visible from the street both night and day.

Going on Vacation?

Check all doors and windows to make sure they are securely locked. If any locks need to be replaced or reinforced, make these improvements before you leave.

Use automatic timers on interior lights. A timer can also be used on a portable radio.

Use photo electric cells (which screw into the light socket) on exterior lights. These devices will "automatically" turn lights on/off depending on the level of darkness.

If you will be gone for an extended period of time, arrange to have your lawn mowed. It is also a good idea to ask a neighbor to park a car in your driveway and to use your garbage container.

Make sure that items such as children's toys, ladders, lawn furniture, etc. are put away.

A trusted neighbor should be: Informed of your vacation plans; when you are leaving and expected return date. o Left with a key to your home so that the position of curtains, blinds can be changed. Also, ask that the newspapers, mail, etc. be picked up and placed in the house.

Inform neighbors on all four sides of when you'll be gone so that a complete look-out is maintained. Be selective, however, in announcing your plans to anyone else.

If you have an alarm system, make sure it's activated when you leave. Leave the alarm key with a neighbor and show them how to turn the system on and off.

ATM Safety Tips

Utilize an ATM located inside an open business whenever possible.

Avoid using street ATMs during night time hours.

Always be aware of suspicious persons or vehicles in the area of the ATM. Trust your gut feeling. If things don’t feel right, avoid that ATM.

Have ATM card out of your wallet or purse before approaching the ATM.

Don’t write your ATM personal identification number on your card or keep the number in your wallet.

When entering your personal identification number, try to keep the numbers from the view of others.

Don’t withdraw large amounts of cash.

Secure your money at the ATM. Don’t walk away with money in hand.

Always take your receipt with you.

If a robber demands your money, don’t argue or fight with the suspect. Note the robber’s description and give the robber the money.

Get away as soon as it is safe to do so. Remember the money is not worth getting hurt over.

Report all robberies to police as soon as possible by calling 911.

Pedestrian Safety Tips

Always walk on the sidewalk. If there is no sidewalk and you must walk in the roadway, always walk facing traffic.